Leweston water tower to open to the public

Leweston water tower which is now a seven storey home will be open to the public on Sunday 25th June

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The owners of Leweston Water Tower, near Sherborne, are opening their unusual home to the public for the first time to raise money for their local church – St Martin’s Lillington.

The tower, built in 1930, to supply water for Leweston Manor and designed by the same architect as Wembley Stadium, is often thought to be a folly. It is in fact the home of Patrick and Barbara Firebrace who converted it from a (disused) water tower to a seven storey house in 2001.

It is famous for its “helter skelter” staircase which winds one and three quarter times around the outside of the building and down which visitors will be able to walk. From the top of the tower it is possible to see for many miles in all directions over the Blackmore Vale and beyond. Families will be able to take part in a quiz about the building and when you get to the top there is a “cow counting” competition (Prize is a meal for two at The Rose & Crown, Longburton).

Nearby Lillington Church is currently fundraising for £80,000 of repairs. For entrance to this fascinating building and to see the amazing views, visitors will be asked to make a donation and in addition tea and cakes will be on sale. Donations can also be paid directly to Lillington Church: Sort Code: 30 99 98 Account: 01835588 Reference “Water Tower”.

Directions to Leweston Water Tower is via the main entrance to Leweston School – just outside Longburton on the road to Leigh. The postcode is DT9 6EW. The Water Tower will be open from noon to 6pm on Sunday 25th June.